Driving in the dark may be extremely tough, especially while using the incorrect vehicle. That can increase tension, raising the risk of accidents we all want to avoid.
Winters are the shortest season in the northern hemisphere, with winter nights getting longer and visibility declining due to snow.
In this case, you’ll need a vehicle with good headlights and visibility.
With all the enormous SUVs on the road, it may seem like a good idea to go for one. Besides better visibility and safety, they appear safer than other cars.
The headlights are the most crucial component in selecting a car that is as safe to drive in the dark as possible. Nowadays, SUVs have several features that improve your driver’s comfort and safety, like automatic high beams for the headlights.
The light switch has three settings: low beam, high beam, and automatic dynamic switch. When there is no oncoming traffic, it switches to high-beam automatically and dips the lights when vehicles approach. Features like these will be pretty beneficial to drivers at night.
Here are ten popular SUVs with the best headlights and visibility for night driving.
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Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is one of the best SUVs for night driving. It has excellent visibility thanks to its large windshield and LED headlights.
Equipped with the Automatic High Beam feature, the CX-5 received a Top Safety Pick Plus rating from the IIHS. Regarding safety and security, the Mazda CX-5 is among the best.
The CX-5 also has a very quiet cabin, making it easy to concentrate on the road. Performance-wise, the CX-5 is capable, with responsive steering and good handling.
The value-for-money proposition is also excellent, with the CX-5 being one of the most affordable SUVs in its class.
The Mazda CX-5 is a perfect choice for those who want a capable and comfortable SUV for everyday driving, day or night.
Acura RDX
From the first impression, the Acura RDX looks like a small SUV. But it’s pretty spacious inside, and its sleek design makes it one of the most stylish SUVs on the market.
The RDX also has great headlights that provide excellent visibility at night.
Acura RDX Gets a Top Safety Pick Plus rating from IIHS, where the headlight features get a Good or Superior rating.
The performance of the Acura RDX is impressive as well. It has a powerful V6 engine makes it great for highway driving, and its all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all types of weather.
Regarding features, the Acura RDX has everything you could want in an SUV. It comes standard with a sunroof, heated front seats, and a rearview camera. It also has a long list of optional features, including a navigation system, premium audio system, and adaptive cruise control.
The best part about the RDX is its price. It’s one of the most affordable luxury SUVs on the market, packed with features that make it a great value.
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Regarding night driving, few SUVs can match the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Thanks to its LED headlights and taillights, the Crosstrek Hybrid is easy to see in the dark, and its high-beam assist feature helps you see even further ahead.
Plus, with standard all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek Hybrid can handle any weather conditions.
The features that make the Crosstrek Hybrid great for night driving also make it an excellent choice for any driver who wants to be safe on the road. You can’t go wrong with the Crosstrek Hybrid as your night-driving SUV.
If you’re looking for an SUV that’s great for night driving, the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid should be at the top of your list.
Lexus NX
Thanks to its LED headlights, the Lexus NX is famous for night driving. They provide excellent illumination of the road ahead, making it easier to see potential hazards.
The Lexus NX is also equipped with adaptive cruise control, which can help you maintain a safe distance from the vehicle. This feature can be handy when driving on dark, poorly lit roads.
Regarding safety, the Lexus NX is an excellent choice for night driving. Another reason the Lexus NX is a good choice for night driving is its comfortable and spacious interior.
The supportive seats offer plenty of legroom to stay comfortable even on long journeys. There’s also plenty of storage space inside the vehicle, so you can keep all your belongings close at hand.
Mazda CX-9
Another SUV that’s great for night driving is the Mazda CX-9. The CX-9 has LED headlights that provide good illumination, and the SUV’s high-mounted taillights make it easier for other drivers to see.
The CX-9 also has a rearview camera, making it easier to back up and park in low-light conditions.
Mazda CX-9 has LED headlights that provide good illumination, and the SUV’s high-mounted taillights make it easier for other drivers to see.
The CX-9 also has a rearview camera, making it easier to back up and park in low-light conditions.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent has standard LED headlights that provide excellent illumination on dark roads.
The Ascent’s high-beam assist feature automatically switches between high and low beams depending on oncoming traffic, making it easier for drivers to see at night.
The Ascent also has a large windshield that provides good visibility, even in poor weather conditions.
And with its standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Ascent can handle whatever the road throws. Whether driving in the city or on the highway, the Ascent is an excellent choice for night driving.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a great choice for night driving. It has LED headlights that provide excellent illumination, and the high beam assist feature helps keep the lights pointed in the right direction.
Tucson also has a wide variety of safety features that make it a good choice for families. It has blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.
The Tucson is also a good choice for those who want a stylish SUV. It has a sleek design and is available in a variety of colours. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants an SUV that looks good and is reliable.
Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is an excellent option for those who enjoy night driving. It offers excellent visibility thanks to its large windshield and LED headlights.
It also has a comfortable interior with plenty of room to stretch out. And, if you need to haul anything, the Trailblazer has you covered with its spacious cargo area.
The feature that sets the Trailblazer apart, though, is its all-wheel drive system. That makes it an excellent choice for those who want to be able to tackle any terrain, no matter how challenging.
So, if you’re looking for an SUV that’s great for night driving and can handle anything you throw at it, the Chevrolet Trailblazer should be at the top of your list.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a great choice for night driving thanks to its comfortable and spacious interior, excellent visibility, and powerful headlights.
The RAV4’s headlights are some of the brightest and most effective in the class, and its high-mounted taillights make it easy to keep an eye on traffic behind you.
The RAV4’s cabin is also well-lit and features large windows that provide good visibility.
The RAV4 is a great choice for night driving thanks to its comfortable cabin, excellent visibility, and powerful headlights.
Hyundai Palisade
If driving at night is something that makes you anxious, the Hyundai Palisade should help put your mind at ease.
This SUV has standard LED headlights that provide excellent illumination, and optional HID headlights offer even more light.
You’ll also appreciate the Palisade’s standard driver attention warning system, which can help prevent drowsy or distracted driving.
Add optional features like a head-up display and safe exit assist (which warns you of approaching vehicles when you’re opening the door), and it’s easy to see why the Palisade is one of the best SUVs for night driving.
What to consider before choosing an SUV for night driving:
With so many different SUVs on the market, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing an SUV for night driving:
- Headlights
Look for an SUV with good headlights. LED headlights are a good option; some models even offer HID or laser headlights. The headlights should provide good illumination and have a wide beam pattern. - Driver assistance features
Look for an SUV with driver assistance features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. These features can help you stay focused on the road and avoid accidents. - Interior lighting
Make sure the SUV you choose has good interior lighting. That will help you see the controls and read the gauges at night. - Visibility
Choose an SUV with good visibility. Large windows and a clear road view will help you stay safe when driving at night. It would be best if you also considered installing tint on the windshield. It can reduce glare from other vehicle lights or street lights, so you can focus more and not get tired. However, you need to find out in advance the type and percentage of window tint that is suitable for driving at night. - Driver attention warning system
This is an excellent feature if you tend to get tired or distracted driving at night. - Head-up display
A head-up display (HUD) projects important information onto the windshield to keep your eyes on the road. - Safe exit assists
This feature warns you of approaching vehicles when you’re opening the door, so you can avoid being hit.
Conclusion
Night driving can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Several great SUVs on the market offer excellent visibility, comfortable cabins, and plenty of safety features. So, if you’re in the market for a new SUV, check out our list of the best SUVs for night driving. You might find the perfect vehicle for your needs.
